Barbie Unveils Adwoa Aboah As Latest “Shero” To Mark Doll’s 60th Anniversary

It’s not every day that your status as an inspirational role model is celebrated by becoming a Barbie, but for model Adwoa Aboah the dream is now a reality. To mark the doll’s 60th anniversary on International Women's Day (March 8), Aboah has been unveiled as a “Shero” doll along with 20 other incredible women – from journalists to cycling champions – who actively inspire the next generation. In a bid to close the Dream Gap (when girls start to limit themselves from age five due to their gender), the brand is now focusing on diversity and inclusivity. “I want to help close the Dream Gap, so that girls don’t have to question if they are smart or brave, and have no limits placed on their capabilities by society,” said Aboah.

Aboah, a Vogue contributing editor, has been honoured in part due to Gurls Talk – an online community Aboah founded for women to discuss issues such as mental health, education and relationships in 2015. “I’m passionate about encouraging girls to be anything they want to be, and I’m honoured to be a Barbie Shero,” said Aboah. “I believe by working together we can encourage girls to find their authentic voices and that we can have an impact on the world for the next generation of girls. Through my work with Gurls Talk and partnership with Barbie, I hope we can inspire girls to try to change the world around them, through acts big or small.”

Aboah selected a sentimental outfit for her doll: a Halpern dress, Stephen Jones turban and Christian Louboutin platform sandals – a replica of the ensemble she wore to accept her Model of the Year accolade at the Fashion Awards 2017. “I love that Barbie offers so much choice now, but to see my own doll that has my freckled skin, skin colour, shaved head and my tattoos is so meaningful to me,” said Aboah.